Who designed the MR2?
The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine sports car that was produced from 1984 to 2007. The MR2 was designed by Akio Yoshida, a renowned Japanese automotive engineer and designer who played a pivotal role in shaping Toyota's sports car lineup during the 1980s and 1990s.
Akio Yoshida: The Mastermind Behind the MR2
Akio Yoshida joined Toyota in 1970 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key figure in the company's sports car development. He was the chief engineer responsible for the design and development of the Toyota MR2, which was introduced in 1984 as a compact, affordable, and agile sports car.
Yoshida's design philosophy for the MR2 was to create a car that offered an engaging driving experience, while still being practical and accessible to a wide range of customers. He drew inspiration from mid-engine sports cars like the Porsche 914 and the Fiat X1/9, but with a distinctly Toyota-esque approach to engineering and reliability.
The MR2's Innovative Design
The Toyota MR2 was a groundbreaking design, featuring a mid-engine layout that provided excellent weight distribution and handling characteristics. Yoshida's team worked tirelessly to optimize the car's aerodynamics, suspension, and powertrain, resulting in a sports car that was both thrilling to drive and surprisingly practical for everyday use.
One of the key innovations of the MR2 was its use of a transverse-mounted, four-cylinder engine, which allowed for a more compact and efficient packaging compared to traditional mid-engine sports cars. This design choice, combined with the car's lightweight construction, contributed to the MR2's nimble and responsive handling.
The MR2's Legacy
The Toyota MR2 was a critical and commercial success, earning praise from automotive enthusiasts and journalists around the world. It established Toyota as a serious player in the sports car market and paved the way for the development of other iconic Toyota models, such as the Supra and the 86.
Akio Yoshida's vision and leadership were instrumental in the MR2's success, and his contributions to the automotive industry continue to be recognized and celebrated by car enthusiasts to this day.
Who created the MR2?
Akio Yoshida
Design work began in 1979 when Akio Yoshida from Toyota's testing department started to evaluate alternatives for engine placement and drive method, finalizing a mid-transverse engine placement.
Which car was used in Tarzan?
Toyota MR2
Toyota MR2 - Taarzan: The Wonder Car.
Are MR2s going up in value?
Future Value of the Toyota MR2
Compared to other JDM cars from the same era, it is highly probable that the MR2 won't explode in value or popularity from where it stands now. Even so, it is inevitable that MR2s will continue to increase in value, primarily due to time and the decreasing supply of MR2s on the market.
Why are MR2 so rare?
It was a sports car, but it wasn't as fast or as powerful as some of the other sports cars on the market. It was also a bit small and cramped, which made it less practical for everyday use. As a result of all of these factors, the Toyota MR2 never really took off in the United States.
How many miles per gallon did the 1985 MR2 get?
And despite our frequent trips to the outer reaches of the rev band, the MR2 had returned a respectable 28 mpg.
How much is an MR2 worth?
Prices for a used Toyota MR2 range from a high of $24,950 to a low of $19,995. Remember that mileage and condition can affect price.
Why is the MR2 famous?
At its introduction in 1984, the MR2 won the Car of the Year Japan. As Toyota engineered the MR2 to accommodate a 2-liter engine, its primary features included its light body (as low as 950 kg (2,094 lb) in Japan and 1,066 kg (2,350 lb) in the US), strong handling, and low-power small-displacement engine.
Was the Toyota MR2 fast?
At the test track, our supercharged MR2 turned in a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.5 seconds and ran the quarter-mile in 15.0 seconds at 91 mph. That's enough to hold off a Porsche 944S in the stoplight drags.
What does Mr in MR2 stand for?
Midship Runabout 2-seater
3) The name MR2 stands for Midship Runabout 2-seater, though it should be noted that the initials MR also refer to the vehicle's layout – mid-engine, rear-wheel drive.
How much is a 1985 Toyota MR2 worth today?
The value of a 1985 Toyota MR2 Mk I can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $12,000 for a 1985 Toyota MR2 Mk I in good condition with average spec.
